Langkawi is for everyone

Tiong: Inclusivity is core to country’s cultural tourism strategy

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Tiong King Sing has apologised over a recent statement made by his deputy with regards to Pulau Langkawi, saying that inclusivity forms the core of the country’s cultural tourism strategy.

He said no site should be made to cater exclusively to the needs of a single religion.

The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister said he wished to apologise for the recent statement by his deputy, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, that purportedly called for Langkawi to be turned into a “preferred destination for Muslims”.

“Malaysia’s tourism sites and cultural heritage should symbolise and inculcate the virtues of inclusivity and diversity.

“No tourism site should be made to exclusively cater to the needs of devotees of a single religion,” he said yesterday.

On Monday, Khairul Firdaus had told Dewan Rakyat that Langkawi was being positioned as a preferred Muslim destination with an emphasis on family-friendly and spiritual tourism, adding that this would help enhance the island’s competitiveness among regional islands for the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Many local tourism operators have since come out to question the need to market Langkawi as a “preferred Muslim tourism destination” since Malaysia is already one.

They also said that Langkawi had established itself as a popular beach destination for international tourists and any move by the government to rebrand the island could be counterproductive.

Industry players also pointed out that making a market too niche had its risks.

Tiong added that the aim is to promote understanding and respect among all Malaysians and international visitors, enabling them to enjoy the country’s diverse and rich cultural heritage.

“Inclusivity forms the core of our cultural tourism strategy and embodies the values we strive to uphold,” he said.

He also said Khairul Firdaus may not have clearly explained the matter and he had spoken to his deputy about it.

Tiong also said he had been overseas on official duties several days ago and the deputy minister’s explanation had resulted in public backlash.

“Once again, I apologise for the statement, and I hope we can all work together to uphold the true values of Malaysia and attract international tourists with our warm hospitality in every state,” he said.